PESHAWAR: Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) Gen Asim Munir on Thursday insisted that militant groups continue to operate from Afghan soil, launching attacks against Pakistan.

He emphasised that the foreign weapons and equipment used in recent attacks provided clear evidence that Afghanistan remained a safe haven for terrorists, reaffirming that no entity would be allowed to disrupt Pakistan`s peace and stability.The army chief made these remarks during a visit to Bannu district, just two days after security forces foiled a major militant attack on Bannu Cantonment, according to a statement issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).

On Tuesday, a group of 16 militants attempted to breach Bannu Cantonment, ramming two explosives-laden vehicles into the perimeter of the highsecurity facility.

According to the ISPR statement issued on Wednesday, security forces neutralised all 16 militants, including four suicide bombers. Five soldiers were also martyred in the operation. The statement noted that intelligence reports unequivocally confirmed the physical involvement of Afghan nationals in the attack, with evidence also pointing to the fact that the attack was orchestrated and directed by militant ringleaders operating from Afghanistan.

On Jan 13, political party representatives met the army chief, discussing whether Pakistan should engage with the Taliban-led Afghan administration formally or informally to curb cross-border terrorism.

However, the army leadership reportedly pointed out that the Afghan rulers had repeatedly failed to act against militants despite multiple warnings from Islamabad.

During his visit to Bannu,the COAS commended the high morale and steadfast resolve of the troops, reaffirming that the Pakistan Army would continue to serve as a bulwark against terrorism to ensure the security and stability of the state.

Gen Munir underscored that the barbaric targeting of civilians, including children, women and the elderly, exposed the true intentions of militants as enemies of Islam and assured that while the perpetrators of the incident were neutralised instantly by soldiers, the planners and facilitators of the dastardly attack would also be brought to justice soon, wherever they may be.

He said the fight against militants and their facilitators, acting on the behest of hostile elements, would continue until its logical conclusion and reiterated that national unity was imperative in the fight against militancy.Gen Munir assured that the armed forces would spare no effort to ensure the safety and security of the people of Pakistan.

While addressing the troops, he lauded their heroic actions, recognising their swift and decisive response in neutralising the attackers and thwarting their nefarious designs.

He expressed profound condolences to the families of innocent civilians who lost their lives in the Bannu attack.

The army chief also visited the Combined Military Hospital Bannu to inquire about the health and well-being of the injured soldiers, acknowledging their resilience and unwavering dedication.

During the visit, the army chief was briefed on ongoing operations and the overall security situation of the area. Earlier, upon his arrival, Gen Munir was received by Peshawar`s corps commander.